NPD Blog

The ADA is aware of a recent study that associates yearly or more frequent dental X-rays to an increased risk of developing meningioma, the most commonly diagnosed brain tumor. However, the study relied on patient’s recollection of past x-rays. The study also stated that some of the subjects received dental x-rays decades ago when radiation exposure was greater.  The ADA encourages further research in the interest of patient safety.
 
The use of protective aprons and thyroid collars on all patients, faster speed film or digital x –rays hugely reduces risks.

However, when you see a prosthodontist, your patient history is taken into consideration when determining the need for x-rays as part of a comprehensive patient evaluation and dental treatment plan.  In many instances, to help decide when to prescribe additional x-rays it is important to obtain your previous dental records and x-rays. Your dental health, past and present are taken into careful consideration during the decision making about how to proceed dental procedures that are in your best interest
 
Dental X-rays are valuable in helping to detect and treat oral health problems at an early stage. Many oral diseases can’t be detected on the basis of a visual and physical examination, and dental X-rays provide information on early-stage cavities, gum diseases, infections or some types of tumors..

Newton Wellesley Dental Partners orders dental X-rays for patients only when it is necessary for diagnosis and treatment. The ADA has published recommendations to help dentists ensure that radiation exposure is as low as reasonably achievable.

For a prosthodontist who puts your physical and dental health first, contact Dr. Ryne Johnson at Newton Wellesley Dental Partners. Remember, “See a Specialist…The Difference will Make you Smile.”

ACP

Halitosis is the technical name for bad breath and is the third-most-frequent reason for going to the dentist, behind tooth decay and periodontal disease.

Throughout the day, the intensity of bad breath changes as a result of food eaten, obesity, digestive disorders,  one’s gum and bone health,  smoking, and alcohol consumption. Bad breath may come and go or it may be persistent.  Some bad breath disappears after eating, brushing, flossing, or rinsing with mouthwash.

Most people who visit the dentist as a result of bad breath do so because it is persistent or chronic. According to Dr. Ryne Johson of Newton Prosthodontics, halitosis can be a sign of a more serious condition.
 
Although bacteria normally collects on your tongue, gum and teeth and causes a bad odor,  people with healthy gums can remove this bacteria by brushing and scraping their tongue while brushing their teeth.  Bacteria build up in your gums between the teeth and if not removed at least once twice per day, an unpleasant odor can result. So floss daily and brush several times per day!

In people with compromised gums (bleeding is seen while brushing/flossing), this bacterial buildup can lead to bone loss.  It can also cause significant problems for diabetics, people with heart disease and has been linked to prostate cancer (see previous blog).

Regular dental visits - The dental hygienist uses special instruments to remove plaque. Although brushing and flossing daily is recommended, a toothbrush and floss alone cannot reach deeply into areas that the dental hygienist can. Attend regular hygiene visits to stop periodontal disease from developing.
 
Tooth decay is also a form of disease. Bacteria cause the tooth to erode which releases a foul odor. Some decay can go untreated, so it is important to see a dentist for an  exam at least twice per year.
 
Mouthwash helps lower the level of bacteria that causes bad breath. To prevent drying out your mouth, use alcohol-free mouthwash. Chewing sugar-free gum with xylitol helps loosen soft depositing that may accumulate on your teeth after eating and in between brushing.  It has also shown to reduce the acidity that develops from bacterial activity.

Drink lots of water and stay hydrated. Believe it or not, a dry mouth has more odor than a properly hydrated mouth. If you sense you have bad breath, drinking a glass of water can help in the short term.
 
To summarize, good oral health is no accident and dentists will joke that you only have to floss the teeth that you plan to keep.  Routine preventative maintenance can actually save one a lot of money and tooth loss.  If you have bad breath it may be as a result of insufficient oral hygiene or it may be indicative of a more severe issue.

Dr. Johnson is accepting new patients.  You may visit his website:  www.NewtonProsthodontics.com and remember, “See a specialist…the difference will make you smile”.

 - Jim Braude, 96.9 WTKK-FM and New England Cable News - "Michael Graham and I are patients of Ryne Johnson of Newton Prosthodontics.  I have spoken to so many of you who have made Dr. Johnson your dentist too ... lawyers, physical therapists, retired men and women, accountants, people in the media, people in working construction, and more. Well, add me to the list as my smile is my living."

Corina Miller, is a model, and she's a lead singer in a band too, who mostly works in New York and London. But she was in Boston recently and was discussing with her publicist how she wanted to improve her smile.

Her publicist knew that Dr. Johnson had many patients who spend time in front of the camera, and to a person they raved about the quality of his cosmetic work. So, Corina joined the growing list of people who swear by Dr. Johnson.

Here is some of what she said in her own words: "I couldn't be any happier or impressed with the outcome;  he is a  refreshingly unique type of dentist; with ease he made significant change that I always wanted but thought was impossible, feeling good about your smile makes one feel more connected with one's self and others."  She continues, "The results are  breath taking, I can't thank Dr. Johnson enough. He is efficient, thorough, and caring Dentist, trust me."

Click here to listen to the full story.

If you have missing teeth, or are accustomed to hiding your smile with your hand, you need to feel the difference a confident smile can bring you. It is time to do something for you. If you have missing teeth, dental Implants are a great option.

Implants are actually anchored to your jawbone, and permanent dental work is affixed to that anchor.  According to prosthodontist, Dr. Ryne Johnson, there are three ways to incorporate implants into prosthetic dentistry:  using snaps to stabilize existing dentures, using bars to support a detachable prosthesis or a reconstruction with fixed-in-place bridgework. This provides a significant  improvement over resting a false tooth on the gum line or using adjacent teeth as anchors. Implants are long-term replacements and have a 30+ year track record of success.
 
Statistics demonstrate that less than 40% of dentists offer dental implants as part of their practice.  The American Dental Association’s standard of care demands that dental implants be discussed with patients in the course of discussing options with patients and failure to do so may be grounds for legal recourse.

What you need to keep in mind however, far beyond appearance, is that tooth loss can have a far-reaching effect on your dental health. Teeth clenching, jaw soreness and headaches can result from tooth loss. Likewise, teeth can move and suffer excessive wear and gums are more prone to periodontal disease.

However it is possible to replace one or all missing teeth and actually implant a working and natural looking tooth. Dental implants are artificial replacements designed to fully replace lost teeth both in functionality and in appearance.

If you are tired of the discomfort or appearance of missing teeth, or you want to see how a confident smile can change your life, contact Dr. Johnson at Newton Prosthodontics.

See a specialist…The difference will make you smile.